OpenAI under fire for ChatGPT model switching rules

CALIFORNIA: OpenAI is facing mounting criticism from its paying ChatGPT subscribers after reports emerged that users are being switched to more conservative models without consent during sensitive conversations.

Over the past week, Reddit and other forums have been flooded with complaints from ChatGPT users. The frustration stems from new safety guardrails introduced this month, which reroute conversations away from the chosen model—such as GPT-4o or GPT-5—whenever emotionally charged or legally sensitive topics arise.

Subscribers argue this undermines the premium service they are paying for, as there is currently no option to disable the feature or even receive clear notifications when a model switch occurs.

The change is part of OpenAI’s updated ChatGPT safety rules, designed to provide extra caution on delicate topics. However, many users compare the system to being forced to watch TV with parental controls locked on—even when no such restrictions are necessary.

According to OpenAI, the goal is to ensure responsible AI behavior, but the lack of transparency has left users dissatisfied.

OpenAI has acknowledged the complaints and confirmed that some queries are rerouted to alternative models under stricter safety filters. The company emphasized that these changes are intended to protect users and maintain trust in AI systems.

However, the response has done little to ease anger among paying subscribers, many of whom feel that they are losing access to the full capabilities of the models they specifically signed up to use.